There was a time when I felt like the world had no use for someone like me. My earliest memories are filled with pain, confusion, and a sense of abandonment that seemed impossible to escape. By the age of seven, I was already in the grip of the justice system, labeled a convicted felon. I endured unimaginable abuse in my childhood and spent much of my youth locked away in institutions. For 18 years, I lived in prison, a place that most people would consider the end of the line. But for me, it became the beginning of something extraordinary.

Today, I am a celebrated author, motivational speaker, and nonprofit leader. I’ve dedicated my life to empowering others to overcome their own struggles, rewrite their stories, and find the strength to thrive. My story is one of redemption, resilience, and purpose, and I’m honored to share it with the world in the hope that it will inspire others to embrace their own potential.

The Turning Point

My journey of transformation began in the most unlikely place: solitary confinement. At 27 years old, I found myself isolated from everyone, sitting in a tiny cell with nothing but my thoughts and the weight of my choices. But in that darkness, I encountered a man who would change my life forever. His name was Mallory-Bey, a Muslim man who mentored me for 19 months.

He challenged me to take a hard look at myself, to confront the pain and anger that had controlled me for so long. He introduced me to the idea that the mind is a powerful tool, one that could either keep me trapped in my circumstances or set me free. With his guidance, I began to rebuild myself from the inside out. I started reading, journaling, and visualizing a life beyond the walls that confined me.

It was during this time that I realized the power of mindset. I made a promise to myself: when I walked out of prison, I would dedicate my life to helping others find the strength to overcome their own challenges.

Writing My Redemption

When I was finally released, I knew I had a story that needed to be told. Writing my memoir, Hey White Boy: Conversations of Redemption, was one of the most difficult and cathartic experiences of my life. The book is raw, honest, and unflinching. It delves into my past, the abuse I endured, and the choices I made that led me to prison. But more importantly, it’s about the transformation that happened in that solitary cell and the journey to becoming the man I am today.

The response to the book has been incredible. People from all walks of life have reached out to tell me how my story resonated with them, how it gave them hope, or encouraged them to confront their own pain. That’s when I realized my story wasn’t just mine—it belonged to everyone who needed a reminder that no matter how dark things seem, there’s always a way forward.

Building a Legacy of Change

After publishing my book, I knew I couldn’t stop there. I wanted to turn my story into action, something that could create lasting change in the lives of others. That’s why I founded The Von Cleveland Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping marginalized individuals and those impacted by incarceration.

At the foundation, we focus on mindset coaching, youth mentorship, and personal development programs. One of our most exciting initiatives is the Igniting Minds Speaking Symposium. It’s a platform where people from diverse backgrounds can share their stories of resilience, hope, and triumph. The goal is simple: to remind people that their voices matter and that their stories have the power to inspire change.

Through the foundation, I’ve been able to mentor young men in juvenile detention centers, helping them reset their mindset and believe in their potential. I’ve also worked with people in reentry programs, showing them that life after incarceration can be one of purpose and fulfillment.

Empowering the Next Generation

My work isn’t just about redemption, it’s about prevention. As a Youth Development Professional at the Boys & Girls Club, I’ve had the privilege of creating programs that inspire and empower young people.

Whether it’s teaching photography and music or running an esports league, my goal is to provide kids with opportunities to explore their passions and build confidence.

One of my favorite programs is a Dungeons & Dragons campaign where kids use critical thinking and teamwork to solve challenges. It’s more than a game; it’s a chance for them to build skills and see themselves as capable, creative, and valuable. These programs are my way of giving back, of creating the kind of support system I wish I’d had when I was their age.

The Healing Voice

Another cornerstone of my work is helping people use their voices as tools for healing. I created a workshop called The Healing Voice, where participants learn how to reclaim their power by sharing their stories. There’s something profoundly transformative about speaking your truth. It allows you to let go of shame, embrace your identity, and connect with others on a deeper level.

This workshop isn’t just for people who’ve experienced trauma it’s for anyone who wants to find their voice and use it to make a positive impact in the world. I’ve seen lives change in those sessions, and it’s a reminder of why I do what I do.

Looking Ahead

My life today is a testament to the fact that your past doesn’t define your future. Every day, I wake up with a sense of purpose, knowing that the work I do has the power to change lives. Whether it’s through my foundation, my speaking engagements, or my creative programs, my mission is always the same: to inspire hope, ignite potential, and build a better future for those who need it most.

I’m also working on expanding my reach as a motivational speaker and content creator. With a growing presence on social media and a platform that resonates with audiences around the world, I’m committed to sharing my story and my message with as many people as possible.

At the end of the day, my work isn’t about me it’s about the people I serve. My life is living proof that no matter where you come from, no matter what you’ve been through, you have the power to create a life filled with purpose, love, and joy.

If there’s one thing I want people to take away from my story, it’s this: Your past may shape you, but it doesn’t have to define you. You are capable of more than you can imagine.